Egypt joins international efforts to protect seafarers’ rights

© Violaine Martin / ILO

GENEVA (ILO News) – On 6 of June 2024, the International Labour Office received the instrument of ratification of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, as amended (MLC, 2006) by the Arab Republic of Egypt. This ratification has been marked by a ceremony at the Palais des Nations on the sidelines of the International Labour Conference. It represents a new significant step towards the universal application of the Convention. 

When depositing the instrument of ratification, the Labour Minister of Egypt, H.E. Hassan Shehata, stated “The ratification of the MLC, 2006 demonstrates the Government's continuous commitment to enhance cooperation with the Organization and adhere to international labour standards. With its strategic geographical location and the crucial role of the Suez Canal, as an indispensable maritime transport artery between East and West, Egypt’s accession to this Convention will significantly contribute to achieving its purposes and objectives. Egypt is looking forward to working closely with the ILO to support the national efforts to ensure the effective implementation of the Convention”. 

When receiving the instrument of ratification, ILO Director-General, Gilbert Houngbo, stated that “I welcome Egypt’s renewed commitment to the ILO's normative system and the respect of workers’ rights. This ratification is the result of a successful collaboration between the ILO and the Egyptian government and social partners. Egypt is a key maritime actor in the world. I am sure that by implementing the MLC, 2006 it will make a substantial contribution to the protection of seafarers’ rights. The Office stands ready to accompany Egypt on this path”.

The MLC, 2006, an innovative and comprehensive instrument often known as “the seafarers’ bill of rights”, is the fourth pillar of the international regulatory regime for the maritime sector, alongside three important Conventions of the International Maritime Organization dealing with safety of life at sea, pollution and training of seafarers.

The MLC, 2006 will enter into force for Egypt on 6 June 2025, that is one year after its ratification. For further information, please visit the  MLC, 2006 webpage.